Sensitive teeth cause great discomfort to anyone who suffers from it and can lead to one not able to enjoy eating or drinking. If you are concerned about teeth sensitivity and are looking for treatment options, read on…
Causes
Tooth sensitivity, also known as “dentin hypersensitivity,” causes pain and discomfort in the tooth as a response to certain stimuli such as eating or drinking something cold or acidic. There are many causes that can lead to more sensitive teeth, and sometimes some people just have more sensitive teeth than others. Medical conditions, such as gastroesophageal reflux (GERD), gastroparesis, and bulimia, cause acid to wear down the enamel can also lead to more sensitive teeth. Here are some causes that can lead to more sensitive teeth:
- Brushing your teeth too hard or using a hard toothbrush can wear down the enamel, causing dentin to become exposed, or encourage gum recession.
- Clenching or grinding your teeth thins the enamel, wearing it down.
- Cracked teeth can expose the inside of the tooth, leading to bacteria infection and increased sensitivity.
- Regularly eating or drinking acidic foods and beverages can reduce the enamel on the teeth.
- Gum recession can cause the dentin to be exposed. This can be a result of gum diseases such as gingivitis.
- Worn fillings expose the inside of the tooth, making it more sensitive.
- Tooth decay/Cavities can leave the dentin exposed if not treated early and can cause discomforts as well as sensitivity.
- Teeth whitening products are harsh and can cause thinning of the enamel.
Treatments
Tooth sensitivity generally results from a layer of the tooth called dentin being exposed. The most common symptom of teeth sensitivity is a sudden, sharp flash of pain when teeth are exposed to air, cold, sweet, acidic or hot foods.
- Desensitizing toothpaste
Desensitizing toothpaste contains active ingredients that can help to block pain associated with sensitive teeth by reducing the signals that travel between the surface of the tooth and the sensory nerves inside. There are many products out there available to choose from, but it is best to seek the options from your dentist.
- Fluoride gel.
Fluoride gel helps to strengthen the tooth’s enamel and reduce pain. You will need a visit to the dentist to get this procedure done. Your dentist will just lightly apple the fluoride gel onto the individual tooths.
- Surgical gum graft.
A gum graft is taking a small part of your gum to replace the lost or reduced gum on the affected tooth. This helps to cover up exposed roots.
- Root canal.
A root canal is opted for when other treatments provide no relief to the patient. This procedure treats the soft core also known as the dental pulp of the tooth. The root canal is known to solve many teeth sensitivity problems.
- A crown, inlay or bonding.
These treatments help cover up broken or chipped teeth as well as give them a better aesthetic.
If you are in Hamden and you are looking for the best treatment for teeth sensitivity. At Parkway Dental we have trained and highly experienced professionals that can provide you with the proper dental care you and your loved ones need. Give us a call at (203) 408-2248 to book an appointment.